He says it is “always a mistake” to underestimate Russia.
Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns wrote in an op-ed that it would be a mistake if the U.S. halted its military aid to Ukraine. He stated, “I have spent much of the past two decades trying to understand the combustible combination of grievance, ambition, and insecurity that Russian President Vladimir Putin embodies. One thing I have learned is that it is always a mistake to underestimate his fixation on controlling Ukraine and its choices.”
“At less than five percent of the U.S. defense budget, it is a relatively modest investment with significant geopolitical returns for the United States and notable returns for American industry,” Director Burns wrote. “Keeping the arms flowing will put Ukraine in a stronger position if an opportunity for serious negotiations emerges.”
The CIA director continued, “It offers a chance to ensure a long-term win for Ukraine and a strategic loss for Russia; Ukraine could safeguard its sovereignty and rebuild, while Russia would be left to deal with the enduring costs of Putin’s folly. For the United States to walk away from the conflict at this crucial moment and cut off support to Ukraine would be an own goal of historic proportions.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Director Burns as he urges continued U.S. support for Ukraine against Russia.
- For members of Congress to be prudent as they negotiate funding for the U.S. border and foreign allied nations.
Sources: The Hill, Foreign Affairs
